Ascend: A Trylle Novel
#3 in Trylle Series
on Goodreads (65,805)
What’s inside...
Wendy Everly is facing an impossible choice. The only way to save the Trylle from their deadliest enemy is by sacrificing herself. If she doesn't surrender to the Vittra, her people will be thrust into a brutal war against an unbeatable foe. But how can Wendy leave all her friends behind...even if it's the only way to save them? The stakes have never been higher, because her kingdom isn't the only thing she stands to lose. After falling for both Finn and Loki, she's about to make the ultimate choice...who to love forever. One guy has finally proven to be the love of her life - and now all their lives might be coming to an end. Everything has been leading to this moment. The future of her entire world rests in her hands - if she's ready to fight for it. Amanda Hocking is an indie publishing sensation whose self-published novels have sold millions of copies all over the world. Ascend is the final chapter in her bestselling Trylle trilogy—and you’ll never guess how it ends!
Character compass
Wendy Everly
Willa Strom
Loki Staad
Finn Holmes
Tove Kroner
Elora Dahl
Elora
Rhiannon
Willa
Aurora
Oliver
Matt Everly
Oren
Rhys
Loki
Discussion points
How do you think Wendy feels about her responsibilities as a Trylle, and how would you feel in her position?
What do you think about the concept of changelings? How does it affect the characters’ sense of identity and belonging?
Can you relate to Wendy's struggles with making tough decisions? What was the hardest decision she had to make, and what would you have done?
How do the different characters’ powers influence their relationships and roles within the Trylle community?
What does loyalty mean in the context of this story? Who do you see as the most loyal character and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to draw parallels between Wendy’s journey and their own experiences with friendships, responsibilities, and personal growth.
Discuss the importance of empathy by examining how Wendy and other characters try to understand and support each other despite their differences.
Explore the concept of leadership with your child by focusing on Wendy’s role and choices throughout the novel. Ask what they would do differently if they were in her shoes.
Help them think critically about the book’s magical elements, asking how these elements help drive the story and develop the characters.
Reinforce the idea of resilience by discussing how Wendy handles adversity and what your child can learn from her reactions and decisions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Leadership
Explanation: In 'Ascend,' the protagonist, Wendy, demonstrates growth as she learns to accept her duties as a princess and eventually as a queen, facing numerous challenges with courage and wisdom.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of taking responsibility in their own lives, be it in handling school projects, household chores, or in their interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: Self-sacrifice for the Greater Good
Explanation: Throughout the story, Wendy makes decisions that prioritize the welfare of her kingdom over her personal desires, teaching a poignant lesson on selflessness.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of thinking about others, such as sharing toys with siblings or helping friends in need, fostering a communal and empathetic mindset.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Wendy encounters numerous setbacks in her journey but her resilience shines as she persists and strives to overcome these obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and resilience when they face challenges in schoolwork, sports, or friendships, understanding that persistence is key to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Trust
Explanation: Trust is a central theme in 'Ascend,' as Wendy learns to discern who she can trust and builds strong alliances based on mutual trust and respect.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children in developing trust with family, friends, and teachers, understanding that trust is foundational in relationships and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Embracing Change and Personal Growth
Explanation: As Wendy transitions from a teenager to a ruler, she exemplifies how embracing change is crucial for personal development and leadership.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to growth and changes in their lives, such as moving to a new school or trying out different activities, and viewing them as opportunities for personal development.